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Description

Discover the perfect blend of classic design and modern performance with the Gretsch Synchromatic 400, a standout in the world of archtop. This instrument is crafted for musicians who demand both style and substance, offering a rich, resonant sound that's perfect for a variety of genres, from rock to jazz. Its design features a laminated maple body that enhances tonal clarity and projection, while the classic "F" holes add a touch of vintage flair.

The Gretsch Synchromatic 400 is equipped with a pair of Black Top Filter'Tron pickups, ensuring a powerful and dynamic sound with exceptional clarity. Whether you're on stage or in the studio, these pickups deliver a balanced and articulate tone that cuts through the mix. The guitar's neck is made from sturdy maple, providing smooth playability and comfort during extended sessions, while the rosewood fingerboard adds warmth to the instrument's overall sound.

The Adjusto-Matic bridge with a secure Bigsby B60 tailpiece offers remarkable tuning stability and expressive vibrato effects, making it a versatile choice for guitarists who like to experiment with their sound. With its combination of vintage aesthetics and modern functionality, the Gretsch Synchromatic 400 is more than just an instrument—it's a statement of style and craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • Hollowbody construction with laminated maple for enhanced resonance
  • Black Top Filter'Tron pickups for clear, dynamic sound
  • Maple neck with a rosewood fingerboard for smooth playability
  • Adjusto-Matic bridge with Bigsby B60 tailpiece for tuning stability and vibrato effects
  • Classic "F" holes for a vintage look and added acoustic projection

Reviews

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Gretsch Synchromatic 400 (Model 6040/6041).

Features and functionality

  • The neck pickup is described as warm and defined, while the bridge pickup offers a less twangy alternative to a Telecaster, retaining clarity when overdriven.

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Build quality

  • The gunmetal grey version has a high-gloss finish that appears as a tightly glittered blueish-green in person.

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  • Some owners find the high-gloss finish requires extra care due to stickiness after cleaning, especially for those with sweaty hands.

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  • Some owners report issues with knobs and pickup switches; occasional loose or noisy components.

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User experience

  • Owners frequently use the Gretsch Electromatic 400 more than other guitars, indicating high playability and satisfaction.

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  • Owners frequently describe the guitar as having a unique Gretsch sound; clear, powerful, with a distinct growl and shimmer.

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  • One owner praised the intonation and tuning stability, noting minimal adjustments needed even after months of use.

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Use cases and applications

  • This guitar suits jazz-influenced modern folk, with tonal versatility accommodating heavier genres as well.

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Comparisons

  • The Gretsch Electromatic 400 is often compared to the Epiphone Casino, both offering excellent value and tonal quality in the $400 price range.

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  • The G5220 is favorably compared to Fender's Classic Vibe series for fretwork quality.

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Setup and maintenance

  • Pickups perform best when set close to the strings; start high and adjust down for desired tone.

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Mods and upgrades

  • Users recommend Gotoh tuners for smoother tuning; cost-effective upgrade to improve tuning stability.

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Based on 0 Reviews and 0 Ratings

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Artist usage

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See how Brian Setzer uses Gretsch Synchromatic 400 (Model 6040/6041)

Brian Setzer

Singer, Guitarist

The Brian Setzer Orchestra

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Verified via reverb.com
Color/Finish: Natural Year: 1952

This Gretsch 6040 Synchromatic was owned by legendary rockabilly guitarist Brian Setzer

SN: 6040- 6820 This is a super cool vintage archtop guitar. There are scrapes and scratches all over the body. The binding is separating around the body as well as around the f-holes although it appears there has been some re-gluing done to them. Some buckle rash on the back. Nothing major or out of the ordinary from a player made in 1952.

See how Django Reinhardt uses Gretsch Synchromatic 400 (Model 6040/6041)

Django Reinhardt

Guitarist

Quintette du Hot Club de France

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Verified via Photo

In a 1946 photo from his U.S. tour, Django Reinhardt is seen playing a Gretsch Electromatic 400, showcasing his renowned guitar skills.

See how George Michael uses Gretsch Synchromatic 400 (Model 6040/6041)

George Michael

Singer

WHAM!

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Verified via YouTube

George Micheal used this guitar in the music video, Faith.

Album Usage

The Gretsch Synchromatic 400 (Model 6040/6041) has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

1 alternative for Gretsch Synchromatic 400 (Model 6040/6041), curated by the Equipboard community.

Gretsch G400JV Jimmie Vaughan Synchromatic (2006-2010)

 

Vintage or Discontinued newer similar sound

A signature version of the Gretsch Model 6041, created for Jimmie Vaughan. Now discontinued.

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